Imagine biting into a perfectly balanced snack bar that's not just delicious, but also packed with wholesome ingredients that will fuel your day. These Toasted Coconut Snack Bars are about to become your new obsession - a magical combination of crunchy toasted coconut, hearty oats, and decadent chocolate chips that will transform your snacking experience from ordinary to extraordinary!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Snack
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- Spread the shredded coconut evenly on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted coconut, oats, and chopped nuts. Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the honey and almond butter together for 30-45 seconds. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the warm honey-almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix well, ensuring all dry ingredients are completely coated.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, stirring gently to distribute them throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, pressing firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula or clean hands to create a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. The bars will firm up as they cool.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the entire block out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Toasting the coconut is crucial - watch it carefully to achieve a golden color without burning. The fragrant, nutty flavor will elevate your entire recipe.
- Use a high-quality honey and almond butter for the best taste and texture. Organic options work wonderfully.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure your bars hold together well when cutting.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling. Patience is key!
- For a variation, try using different types of nuts or swapping chocolate chips with dried fruit.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture for up to 5 days.
- For a protein boost, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the dry ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 146kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: mg
